In recent years, the world has witnessed a deep change around cannabis. If it is a stigmatized plant, it has become a central place in public health debates, economic development and intelligent regulation. Mexico cannot remain oblivious to this global transformation, especially when countries such as Canada, Germany or the United States advance in the construction of cannabis industries that generate employment, innovation and tax collection, while protecting the health of their citizens.
Today, more than ever, international experiences need to look seriously to design a Mexican model that balances economic opportunities with public health.
One of the main arguments in favor of cannabis regulation has been the impulse to scientific research. In 2024, more than 4,000 studies on cannabis worldwide were published, a record figure that demonstrates the growing academic and medical interest in understanding its therapeutic properties, risks and benefits.
For example, a recent meta -analysis found that CBD extracts have shown significant improvements in children and adolescents with autism, reducing anxiety and improving social interaction without relevant adverse effects. At the same time, researchers at the University of Rutgers warn that about 20% of patients who use medicinal cannabis can develop some dependence after three months of treatment. That is, the evidence suggests that neither stigmatization nor the idealization of cannabis are useful; The fundamental thing is access to precise information, rigorous clinical studies and responsible regulations.
The data also contradict one of the most common fears: that legalization would increase consumption among adolescents. In states such as Colorado, a pioneer in recreational legalization, school surveys show that the use of cannabis among high school students has decreased since 2013. In 2023, only 12.8% of young people reported having consumed cannabis in the last month, compared to 19.7% before legalization. This shows that a regulated and supervised market can coexist with effective prevention policies.
In addition to the health component, cannabis has become a formidable economic engine. In the United States alone, it is estimated that the legal sales of “medicinal and recreational” cannabis will reach 35 billion dollars in 2025. But the impact goes much further: considering the multiplier effect on related industries (agriculture, logistics, technology, retail), the total economic impact could exceed 123 billion dollars. For each dollar spent in cannabis in a dispensary, another 2.50 additional dollars are generated in the local economy.
This expansion is not limited to the domestic market. Canada, for example, doubled its exports of medicinal cannabis in the first half of 2024, driven by the growing European demand. Germany, after legalizing adult use in 2024, became one of the main importers, and countries such as Portugal, Australia or Colombia have begun to position themselves as strategic exporters.
Mexico, with its privileged climate, agricultural experience and strategic geographical location, has the potential to become a key actor in the international trade in cannabis. However, for this he needs a clear, competitive and evidence -based legal framework.
The design of public policies around cannabis should not be done from prejudice, but from the analysis. Uruguay, for example, opted for a state approach: he authorized the sale in pharmacies at low prices, and complemented this measure with cultivation and self -consumption clubs. Canada developed a robust industry, with strict quality standards and export opening. Germany, in its recent reform, allowed the self -cultivation and the creation of regulated social clubs, limiting the monthly amount per person.
These models have differences, but share common principles: state control, restricted access to adults, public education and research promotion. Mexico could benefit from adopting its own route that integrates these experiences, prioritizing public health, regulatory transparency and inclusive economic development.
With more than 125 million inhabitants, Mexico is called to become the largest potential cannabis market in the Spanish -speaking world. But this opportunity should not be understood as a career for profits, but as a platform to promote agricultural innovation, strengthen the health system and generate formal employment, especially in rural areas.
Legalize and regulate cannabis responsible would allow to discourage the illicit market, offer safe medical alternatives, attract national and international investment, and guarantee decent working conditions for those who cultivate and process the plant. At the same time, it would allow the State to monitor the risks, establish clear limits and strengthen prevention between vulnerable populations.
In this process, it is key that the debate remains informed and plural. It is not about imposing models, but about building a consensus based on science, respect for human rights and social justice. The cannabis industry in Mexico is ready to collaborate with the authorities, academics and civil society in the design of a modern, fair and effective public policy. The time to act is now. The question is no longer whether we must regulate cannabis, but how to do it intelligently, responsible and vision of the future.
About the author:
Twitter: @anicannmx
http://www.anicann.org/
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